Shoei Hornet ADV helmet review | Can the Hornet still hold its own against the latest adventure helmets?

This is my first Shoei motorbike helmet, ever – and it’s made me regret not picking one up sooner. The quality, fit and features are all superb and more than on-par with the Arai Tour-X 4 I’ve worn for the previous 40,000+ mile to this.

The Hornet ADV is an ECE 22.05 helmet, meaning it’s not the latest standard (ECE22.06), and will inevitably need to be replaced in the line-up soon. But if you need an adventure helmet right now, this is still a great option.

Is the Shoei Hornet ADV Sovereign comfortable?

Available in four shell sizes to deliver the best fit possible, the Hornet’s shell is organic fibre composite, with a multiple density EPS. The peak is pleasingly rigid, meaning no flex or vibration in the airflow even at speed (my Tour-X 4 peak flaps like a seagull in turbulence), although those who like a removeable peak, or to have the option of wearing goggles, will need to look elsewhere.

Is the Shoei Hornet ADV practical?

The visor system is excellent, allowing for simple click-out, click-in replacement with the peak fitted. The only niggle here is that it’s very hard to locate the tabs when you’re fitting a dark visor back onto the helmet as you’re effectively blind. Clear visors are easy.

The fitment is very good, and I’ve suffered no leaks riding in heavy rain. It comes with a Pinlock insert, which also works well, although I have had one Pinlock post snap off when switching the insert between clear and tinted visors (it comes with spare posts).

Venting is decent, but certainly not amazing. There are vents at the chin, brow and crown, and all allow enough air in to keep you relatively fresh – but on very warm days, or if you’re working hard on the bike on a trail, there’s not enough volume pushing through. Removing the optional chin curtain is wise if temperatures are high.

The lining is removable and washable, and the cheek pads are quick release in case of emergencies. After 5000 miles, there’s no hint of wear, rubbage or furring of the lining, and the lid still smells new, too. The chin strap is a D-ring type. In use, it’s quiet in clean airflow (I always wear earplugs), comfortable and stable. Even turning your head in the wind doesn’t result in any dramatic pull from the vented peak.

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